New Tool For Straightening Threads - 2/28/18

February 28, 2018--I have a new favorite tool--a Vinida 2-in-1 cordless hair straightener ceramic flat iron and curling iron that is rechargeable with a USB charger. It was a little more expensive than some others, but I wanted a portable, rechargeable flat iron because we are unable to plug in appliances while taking classes at the ANG national seminar.   It is recommended the iron be turned off after each use, but that isn't a problem--when you turn it on, it heats up immediately and then cools quickly when you're finished using it.

Vinida Portable Flat Iron

I had some experience with similar irons brought into classes for students to use, but didn't think they were necessary.  Well, I'm a convert now.  I've been using it to straighten out everything--from RG/Neon Rays to RG/Splendor (love what it does to silk).  I find the threads don't kink up so much and are easier to "lay" flat and smooth.   I'm going to experiment using it for all threads.  Yes, it's an additional step to stitching, but at this point, it seems worth it.

Fire and Ice Class - 2/26/18

February 26, 2018--Just finished taking a 2-day class called Fire & Ice taught by Toni Gerdes and hosted by the ANG Checkerspot Chapter of Silver Spring, MD.  Had a wonderful time learning new stitches and starting to "build" this wonderful project.  Toni designed this piece by selecting threads, colors and shapes based upon the Museum at Prairiefire in Overland Park, KS.

Have lots of "thread spaghetti" to untangle when I get back to this project--and it is calling to me.

Museum at Prairiefire, Overland Park, KS

Toni Gerdes, Teacher and Designer of Fire & Ice

Fire & Ice at Class End